Please Support the Bible Translation Work of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

$5.00

Explore the profound impact of enduring persecution as a Christian. Learn how these trials can fortify your faith, foster spiritual growth, and above all, bring praise to God. Dive into the transformative power of resilience in the face of adversity, as we unwrap the divine grace available to every believer.

“For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God.”—1 PETER 2:20.

Why can Christians expect to be persecuted?

Christians can expect to be persecuted because Jesus, our ultimate exemplar, warned his followers that they would face trials and tribulations for their faith. In the Gospel of John, Jesus stated, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you” (John 15:18-19, ESV). Jesus here forewarned that His followers would face opposition and persecution because they are not ‘of the world,’ highlighting that their values, morals, and beliefs often contrast with those of the worldly environment around them.

Who is really behind the persecution of Christians, and what is his aim?

Scripture identifies Satan, the Adversary, as the principal entity behind the persecution of Christians. His primary aim is to disrupt their relationship with God and to discourage them from pursuing righteousness. In 1 Peter 5:8 (ESV), Peter admonishes, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” The aim of the enemy is to undermine the faith of believers and to bring about spiritual ruin.

Give examples from the Scriptures showing what kinds of persecution the early Christians had to endure.

The early Christians endured various forms of persecution, as recorded in the New Testament. For instance, Stephen was stoned to death because of his bold proclamation of the gospel, becoming the first Christian martyr (Acts 7:54-60). The Apostle Paul, once a persecutor of Christians himself, later faced numerous trials for his faith, including floggings, imprisonments, and ultimately execution (2 Corinthians 11:23-27). The early Christian community as a whole also experienced persecution from both Jewish religious authorities and the Roman Empire, leading to social ostracism, imprisonment, physical torture, and death (Acts 8:1-3; Revelation 2:10).

What shows that the followers of Christ in the first century were not intimidated by persecution?

The New Testament provides several examples demonstrating that the first-century Christians were not intimidated by persecution. In Acts 4:18-20, Peter and John, when commanded by the Jewish authorities to stop teaching in Jesus’ name, responded, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard” (ESV). They, and others like them, continued preaching and teaching despite the threats and actions taken against them, showing remarkable boldness and courage (Acts 5:29; Philippians 1:14).

How did Peter and John react to threats made against them?

When Peter and John were threatened by the religious authorities, they responded with courage and faith. As mentioned, they boldly asserted that they would obey God rather than men (Acts 4:18-20). Upon release, they returned to their fellow believers, and together they prayed for boldness to continue speaking God’s word (Acts 4:23-31).

What help from God did the apostles and disciples pray for while under persecution?

While under persecution, the apostles and disciples prayed for boldness to continue speaking God’s word without fear (Acts 4:29). They also prayed for God to stretch out His hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of Jesus (Acts 4:30). They sought God’s intervention and strength to endure and advance the gospel amidst the opposition.

According to what Paul wrote to the Philippians, what benefits resulted from his imprisonment in Rome?

Paul saw his imprisonment in Rome as an opportunity for the advancement of the gospel. In his letter to the Philippians, he wrote, “I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ” (Philippians 1:12-13, ESV). Paul’s circumstances provided a unique platform for him to bear witness to Christ even among his captors.

What reason did Jesus give for our being persecuted today?

Jesus explained that His followers would be persecuted because they are not of the world, and their beliefs and practices are often at odds with worldly values (John 15:19). He also mentioned in the Sermon on the Mount, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10, ESV). This indicates that persecution can be a consequence of living righteously, in accordance with God’s principles, in a world that often opposes or misunderstands such a way of life.

How do Christians view suffering and persecution?

Christians view suffering and persecution through the lens of faith, seeing it as a part of their Christian journey. They draw from various passages in the New Testament that highlight the inevitability of such experiences. In John 16:33, Jesus says, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (ESV). As followers of Christ, they understand that sharing in Christ’s suffering may also mean experiencing persecution (Philippians 3:10). However, Christians are also assured of God’s presence and help during these times, providing comfort and strength (2 Corinthians 1:3-4; Romans 8:35-39). They further believe that suffering refines their faith, develops perseverance, character, and hope, and ultimately conforms them more to the likeness of Christ (Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4).

What can we learn from the way Jesus and other faithful ones reacted when under trial?

The reactions of Jesus and other faithful individuals under trial demonstrate remarkable faith, courage, and steadfastness. Jesus, during His most agonizing moment in Gethsemane, submitted His will to the Father’s, saying, “Not my will, but yours, be done” (Luke 22:42, ESV). He endured suffering and death on the cross, modeling complete trust and obedience to God.

From the early disciples and apostles, we learn boldness and courage. Despite threats and persecutions, they continued preaching the gospel, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the mission Christ entrusted to them (Acts 4:29; 5:29). Paul’s example, particularly, teaches us about rejoicing in suffering and using every circumstance – even imprisonment – to advance the gospel (Philippians 1:12-18).

Why is it wise not to retaliate when we are persecuted?

It is wise not to retaliate when persecuted because retaliation contradicts the teachings of Christ and the spirit of the gospel. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructed His followers to “turn the other cheek” (Matthew 5:39, ESV) and to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44, ESV). The apostle Paul also echoed this sentiment when he wrote, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil” (Romans 12:17, ESV). Not retaliating demonstrates the grace, mercy, and forgiveness characteristic of Christ’s teaching and provides a powerful witness to others. Moreover, Christians are reminded that “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord” (Romans 12:19, ESV), thus trusting God for ultimate justice.

What joy sustained Jesus through his trials, and what can we learn from this?

The book of Hebrews reveals that it was “for the joy that was set before him” that Jesus “endured the cross, despising the shame” (Hebrews 12:2, ESV). This ‘joy’ refers to the fulfillment of God’s plan of salvation, the redemption of humanity, and His impending exaltation at God’s right hand. Despite the pain and suffering, Jesus was sustained by the future joy of reconciling humanity to God and the promise of His eternal kingdom.

From this, we learn the importance of maintaining an eternal perspective in our trials. Like Jesus, we can endure present hardships by focusing on the joy set before us – the promises of God, including eternal life, a future resurrection, and an imperishable inheritance in God’s Kingdom (1 Peter 1:3-5). This future-focused perspective enables us to persevere and remain steadfast in our faith amid suffering and persecution.

What is the Devil’s aim in bringing persecution upon true Christians?

The Devil’s aim in instigating persecution against true Christians is primarily to hinder the spread of the Gospel, discourage believers, and tempt them to renounce their faith. In the parable of the sower, Jesus described Satan as the bird that snatches away the seed sown on the path, illustrating his desire to prevent God’s Word from taking root in people’s hearts (Matthew 13:19, ESV). His ultimate goal is to alienate believers from their relationship with God, and he uses various methods, including persecution, to achieve this.

Satan has raised what great issue and has called what into question as regards humans?

Satan, also referred to as the accuser, has raised the issue of the integrity of humans toward God under trial. He has specifically questioned whether humans will maintain their faith and obedience to God when faced with suffering, persecution, or hardship. This challenge is evident in the account of Job, wherein Satan questioned Job’s faithfulness, claiming that Job served God only because of the blessings and protection God gave him (Job 1:9-11). The issue, therefore, is about the genuineness of human devotion to God.

Jesus Christ specifically cited what reason to be happy when “persecuted for righteousness’ sake”?

Jesus indicated that those who are “persecuted for righteousness’ sake” are blessed and can be happy because “theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10, ESV). In the Beatitudes, part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught that suffering persecution for upholding righteousness and for His sake is an honor and results in great spiritual rewards. It marks believers as citizens of God’s kingdom, affirming that their faith is genuine and that they are in a right relationship with God.

What contributes to our happiness when we are persecuted as God’s servants?

Several factors contribute to a Christian’s happiness even amid persecution. Firstly, enduring persecution for righteousness’s sake confirms that they are living in a way that is consistent with the teachings of Christ, which brings spiritual joy and satisfaction. Secondly, the promise of eternal rewards and the assurance of belonging to God’s kingdom, as highlighted by Jesus in Matthew 5:10-12, provides a profound sense of hope and joy. Lastly, the presence and comfort of the Holy Spirit, coupled with the support and fellowship of the Christian community, play crucial roles in sustaining a Christian’s joy during times of persecution (2 Corinthians 1:3-4; Acts 9:31).

How can Christians prepare for persecution?

Christians can prepare for persecution by deepening their knowledge and understanding of God’s Word, thereby strengthening their faith. By meditating on the lives of the biblical figures who endured persecution, Christians can gain courage and resilience. Paul advised Timothy, “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12, ESV), preparing him for the inevitability of persecution. Developing a strong prayer life and cultivating a personal relationship with God is also crucial, as is surrounding oneself with a supportive Christian community.

In meeting persecution, why is prayer so important?

Prayer is an essential tool for meeting persecution because it connects us to God, our source of strength, comfort, and wisdom. Through prayer, Christians can gain the courage, peace, and resilience needed to endure hardships (Philippians 4:6-7, ESV). Prayer also offers an avenue for requesting divine intervention and guidance. Moreover, Christians are encouraged to pray for those who persecute them, following Jesus’ example (Matthew 5:44).

How can the “peace of God” help us when we are persecuted?

The “peace of God,” as described in Philippians 4:7, surpasses human understanding and guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. This divine peace helps us endure persecution by giving us inner calm and spiritual strength, enabling us to face trials without being overwhelmed by fear or despair. Even in the midst of adversity, we can have the assurance of God’s presence and love, knowing that our eternal reward far outweighs any present suffering.

What comfort can be drawn from 1 Corinthians 10:13?

In 1 Corinthians 10:13, Paul assures us that God is faithful and will not let us be tempted or tested beyond our ability to endure. Furthermore, He will provide a way out so that we can stand up under the pressure. This promise brings great comfort during persecution, affirming that God is in control and He cares for us. It also gives us hope, knowing that we can rely on God’s strength, not just our own, to endure and overcome trials.

True Christians have what attitude toward their persecutors, and why so?

True Christians hold an attitude of love and forgiveness towards their persecutors. This is in line with Jesus’ command to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44, ESV). This attitude originates from the understanding that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces (Ephesians 6:12). Moreover, it acknowledges that every person is a potential recipient of God’s mercy, as illustrated in the conversion of Saul, who once persecuted Christians but became one of Christianity’s greatest apostles. Loving our persecutors also reflects God’s own love, as He “is kind to the ungrateful and the evil” (Luke 6:35, ESV).

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).

Reuben Archer Torrey was an American evangelist, pastor, educator, and writer. He authored many books on apologetics, prayer, Christian living, and theology.